Good Friday in Norfolk Island

Meaning and island history

Good Friday is the Friday before Easter and commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus in Christian tradition.[4] On Norfolk Island, a local historical link is All Saints Church in Kingston: the building was converted for worship after Bounty mutineers from Pitcairn Island were resettled on Norfolk in the mid-19th century.[5]

The local Church of England meets in historic buildings including All Saints and St Barnabas Chapel, and welcomes visitors to its services.[6]

Public holiday status

Norfolk Island’s continued laws list Good Friday and Easter Monday separately as public holidays. Good Friday is not assigned a fixed calendar date in that list, and the schedule does not attach a substitute Monday to it; the island’s tourism guidance likewise names both days among its annual public holidays.[1][3]

The Australian Government says the 2016 public-holiday ordinance brought together holidays under the Commonwealth Fair Work Act and those previously listed under the Norfolk Island Employment Act. For employees, the Fair Work Ombudsman says there is a right to be absent from work on a public holiday; specific entitlements can depend on applicable workplace arrangements.[2][7]

Church services and local customs

Norfolk Island tourism guidance says visiting worshippers are welcome at All Saints Church and recommends asking the Visitor Information Centre for current service days, times and venues.[5] The island Church of England also welcomes visitors, but its published information describes regular worship rather than a fixed Good Friday programme.[6]

The Norfolk Island Church of England describes its focus as the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.[6]

Planning a visit

Check opening hours with government offices and banks before you go. Check directly with shops, banks, restaurants and transport services before making plans; ask the Visitor Information Centre for current church service information.[1][3][5]